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<p>In the original “Mamma Mia,” the Greek island of Skopelos played the fictional island of Kalokairi. But to shoot “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” filmmakers turned to the island of Vis, off the coast of Croatia.</p><p>Because the island was a Yugoslav military base until 1989, it remained isolated and sparsely populated until fairly recently. Although Vis has changed as it’s become a tourist destination, it has remained fairly secluded. However, “Mamma Mia” could push the island into the spotlight.</p><img alt="Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531928850/mamma-mia-here-we-go-again-CROATIAMIA0718.jpg?itok=aIX_QuPC"><p>There are two ways to get to Vis. You can either board the two-and-a-half-hour ferry from the mainland, or channel your inner <a href="https://people.com/movies/cher-on-playing-meryl-streeps-mother-in-mamma-mia-2/" target="_blank">“Mamma Mia” film star</a> and fly in via helicopter.</p><p>Regardless of how one arrives, the 35-square-mile island welcomes visitors with 17th-century Venetian architecture, azure rocky beaches, and laid-back vibes.</p><p>Only about 3,600 people live on the island, helping to maintain its sleepy demeanor. But there’s still plenty to do.</p><img alt="The town of Vis is located in the north-eastern part of the island Vis in the bottom of a well protected bay. "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531928850/vis-croatia-CROATIAMIA0718.jpg?itok=1N7Xdv9E"><p>To see Vis as it was featured in the film, head to Kozima. The fishing village dates back to the 12th century. Although it’s considered a sleepy town, Kozima transformed into a taverna for filming to host several of the movie’s large dance number. The featured beach scenes took place in Stiniva. The pebbled beach was named the most beautiful in Europe in 2016.</p><p>To sleep like the stars, book the 16th century <a href="http://visvillas.com/listing/palazzo-kut/" target="_blank">Palazzo Kut</a> (where Amanda Seyfried is rumored to have stayed), from $920 per night, or the <a href="http://visvillas.com/listing/villa-serena/" target="_blank">Villa Serena</a> (the rumored temporary home of Colin Firth) from $500 per night.</p><p>To see more of Vis, check out “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” in theaters July 20.</p>

<p>Fifty-one percent of the population — or about 129 million people — said they had gone a full year without taking a vacation, according to <a href="http://www.allianztravelinsurance.com" target="_blank">Allianz Travel Insurance’s</a> 10th annual Vacation Confidence Index.</p><p>More than 96 million people reported having gone more than two years without taking a trip in the 2018 report, compared to about 93 million in 2017.</p><p>Allianz's survey found that the number of people who said they were confident they would take a vacation within the year — 48 percent — is at the lowest rate it’s been since 2010.</p><p>Respondents did not give specific reasons for their lack of vacations, however Allianz representatives point to areas like natural disasters and pricing as potential factors.</p><p>“Factors like a bumpy stock market and memories of hurricanes and terrorist attacks that make the world an uncertain place, may also sap vacation confidence,” Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Global Assistance USA, told <em>Travel + Leisure</em>. “Trends like bleisure travel, in which business travelers combine work trips with personal and leisure experiences, may also contribute to a decrease in taking a full week off.”</p><p>If you want to take a trip but aren't sure how to budget for it, check out these <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/budgeting-currency/ways-to-save-money-for-travel" target="_blank">tips for saving</a>.</p>

<p>Visiting a ghost town is about to take on a completely different meaning.</p><p>On Friday, July 13, Brent Underwood, owner of a backpacker hostel in Austin, Texas, officially bought a 19th-century ghost town in California called <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/california-ghost-town-cerro-gordo-sale" target="_blank">Cerro Gordo</a> for a cool $1.4 million. The asking price for the land was actually $925,000, according to the <a href="http://www.ghosttownforsale.com/" target="_blank">listing</a>.</p><p>Real estate agent Jake Rasmuson told <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/ghost-town-sold-cerro-gordo/index.html" target="_blank">CNN</a> that of all the offers, Underwood’s was the most beneficial to the land and community.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/overgrown-ghost-town-china-houtouwan" target="_blank">This Ghost Town Was Swallowed Up by Nature and Now It's an Eerily Beautiful Hiking Destination</a></p><img alt="Tram trestle in a high altitude ghost mining town, Cerro Gordo "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531838979/cerro-gordo-mining-town-CERROGORDO0718.jpg?itok=iVIeRMWm"><p>Cerro Gordo, which is a mining town that struck silver in 1865, has long been abandoned but was passed down through the same family for generations. About 22 original structures are still standing, and Underwood intends to preserve the town for its important part in American history.</p><p>“The town is so rich in history and has impacted so many lives,” Underwood told CNN. “Cerro Gordo is a true piece of American history that is impossible to replicate.”</p><p>Underwood and a partner, Jon Bier, are planning to renovate certain buildings in their historical, 19th-century style, but with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and comfortable accommodations for visitors who want to stay for several nights.</p><img alt="Structures in a high altitude ghost mining town (Ag-Pb-Zn). "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531838979/cerro-gordo-california-CERROGORDO0718.jpg?itok=hMlJ7ZAv"><p>“We're looking to create a new destination. It isn't often you're able to have such a canvas to work with. We have over 300 acres and dozens of buildings,” Underwood said. “We want to maintain the historic nature of the property while introducing amenities that will allow more people to enjoy the location.”</p><img alt="Cerro Gordo is currently a ghost mining town. It still has several buildings including the general store and the American Hotel. "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531838979/cerro-gordo-old-mining-town-CERROGORDO0718.jpg?itok=Meg0igk0"><p>Underwood added that the area will also play host to “high level programming in forms of writing retreats, music events, dining experiences, photo shoots, theater, special events, and more.”</p><p>Looks like this <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/scattered-hotels-alberghi-diffusi" target="_blank">ghost town</a> is about to come back to life.</p>

<p>“We’re like celebrities around here,” <a href="http://hhiseaturtleprotectionproject.com" target="_blank">Hilton Head Island Sea Turtle Protection Project</a> volunteers Kym Castillo and Jayme Lopko say as we make our way down a wide stretch of beach in our truck, a small pink turtle on Castillo's hat and a giant one painted across the side of the vehicle.</p><p>It’s just after 6 a.m. and the sun is only starting to rise, spilling deep shades of pink over the still-dark waves. Early risers are already on the sand, some jogging, others toting a sleepy child or a dog eager to splash in the surf. Castillo and Lopko are right — all of them stop and stare as the turtle mobile drives slowly by, snapping a photo, wandering over to ask a question, or at least cracking a smile.</p><img alt="Hilton Head Sea Turtle Patrol "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-sea-turtle-patrol-HHI0718.jpg?itok=9lsAuKTP"><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/hilton-head-best-island-in-us" target="_blank">Why Hilton Head Is the Best Island in the U.S.</a></p><p>We’re taught to look for tire-like tracks coming out of the water, markings of a mama loggerhead dragging her roughly 300-pound body up far enough on land to lay her eggs. It’s been a slow season so far, Castillo says, due to a cooler winter. Members of the volunteer patrol have been out on the beach at 5 a.m. every day since May 1, and up until that early July morning they’d found 128 nests along Hilton Head Island’s coastline — a small number compared to 2016’s record 411 or even 2017’s 325. But after a few false alarms we find one, and it feels like there should be some sort of siren to blare. Instead it's our squeals of excitement alone that drown out the sound of the crashing waves.</p><img alt="Hilton Head Island sea turtle "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791717/hilton-head-island-turtle-mom.JPG?itok=PSPPBZtz"><p>Lopko digs a careful hole (one egg from every nest must be sacrificed for DNA testing) as Castillo measures the exact location of nest No. 129. The morning is officially a success.</p><img alt="Hilton Head Island sea turtle nest "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-sea-turtles-HHI0718.jpg?itok=VOMI3N9T"><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/islands" target="_blank">The 15 Best Islands in the World</a></p><p>Although they're just 31 miles from Savannah, Hilton Head Island residents seem to co-exist with nature in a way that's rarely seen in the U.S. today. They take pride in their wildlife, from the birds of the salt marshes to the dolphins swimming in the sound — and continuing the legacy of <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/19/business/charles-e-fraser-73-dies-developer-of-hilton-head.html" target="_blank">Charles Fraser</a>, who developed the island with an emphasis on conservation in the 1950s. And while they love their 12 miles of pristine beaches and 24 championship golf courses, they want visitors to know Hilton Head Island is more than a place to work on their tans or perfect their swings.</p><p>Here's how to get to know the island — <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/islands-in-us" target="_blank">voted No. 1 in the continental U.S.</a> for three straight years by <em>Travel + Leisure</em> readers in the <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best" target="_blank">World’s Best Awards</a> — beyond the beaches and greens.</p><h2>Fly Into One of T+L Readers' Favorite Airports</h2><img alt="Savannah-Hilton Head airport "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/savannah-hilton-head-airport-sav-07-domesticairportswb18_0.jpg?itok=kb7meoEa"><p>While Hilton Head Island does have a <a href="http://www.hiltonheadairport.com/" target="_blank">small airport of its own</a> with flights to and from Charlotte, North Carolina, often the easiest (and most affordable) way to fly there is through the <a href="https://savannahairport.com/" target="_blank">Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport</a>, which has consistently found its way into the T+L World's Best Awards <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/airports-domestic" target="_blank">top 10 domestic airports list</a>.</p><p>Not only is the space almost shockingly calm and orderly (there's even a separate TSA line for travelers with mobile boarding passes), but there's a serene sitting area designed to look like one of Savannah's historic squares, and an outpost of Savannah-favorite <a href="https://www.leopoldsicecream.com/" target="_blank">Leopold's Ice Cream</a>, where you can pick up a scoop (or a pint) of a delicious flavor like strawberry shortcake, rum bisque, or butter pecan. From there it's about a 45-minute drive to Hilton Head Island.</p><h2>Learn About, Meet, and Adopt the Wildlife</h2><img alt="hilton-head-island-baby-sea-turtles "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791717/hilton-head-island-turtle-hatchlings.JPG?itok=t_gLDu0Q"><p>The <a href="https://www.coastaldiscovery.org/" target="_blank">Coastal Discovery Museum</a> sees most of its visitors mid-week, according to Rex Garniewicz, president and CEO, once families are thoroughly fried and need a break from the sun. But if you want to be able to identify the flora and fauna you'll see throughout your stay, it's a great place to start your vacation. Set on the lush grounds of a former plantation, the museum includes a Discovery Lab where kids can see local animals such as hermit crabs, horseshoe crabs, and turtles, a walk-through butterfly habitat filled with native species, and the opportunity to get up close with busy worker bees as they make honey.</p><p>Visitors can also take guided walking tours and stop to <a href="https://www.coastaldiscovery.org/home/discover-a-cause/sea-turtles/" target="_blank">adopt a sea turtle nest</a> — a great reminder of your trip each time you get a personally written email update on your hatchlings. (Yes, I did adopt nest No. 129 and I'm expecting my hatchlings in less than two months.)</p><h2>Experience Gullah Culture</h2><img alt="Hilton Head Island Gullah baskets "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-gullah-baskets-HHI0718.jpg?itok=xMnq-EHC"><p>Traces of Hilton Head Island's rich history are still being uncovered — most recently in a dig at a <a href="https://www.islandpacket.com/news/local/article214678490.html" target="_blank">4,000-year-old Native American site in Sea Pines</a> — but there are many places to learn about the Gullah people, an integral part of the island's culture. The heart of this is in Mitchelville, a town of escaped slaves dating back to the Civil War, which <a href="http://exploremitchelville.org/programs/explore/tours/roots-of-reconstruction" target="_blank">visitors can tour today</a>. Members of the island's current Gullah population are direct descendants of the freedmen of Mitchelville, and many are dedicated to carrying on the traditions through educational programs and the month-long <a href="http://gullahcelebration.com/" target="_blank">Gullah Celebration</a> featuring Gullah art, music, and food every February.</p><p>As Michael Smalls, a <a href="https://www.gullahbasketsbymichaelsmalls.com/" target="_blank">seventh-generation Gullah sweetgrass basket-sewer</a> explained, slaves brought over from different regions of Africa were unable to communicate with one another, so they formed the Gullah language as common ground. Smalls' baskets, handmade with locally foraged materials, are his main tool for passing down his culture to future generations. The nearly indestructible baskets were used by slaves to clean rice, carry vegetables, and even hold babies while their mothers worked in the field, Smalls explained, and today intricate versions are used to hold fruit, decorate homes, and are commonly given as wedding gifts. Smalls and his partner, Dino Badger, sell their work at the Coastal Discover Museum and on <a href="https://www.gullahbasketsbymichaelsmalls.com/shop" target="_blank">their website</a>, and hold classes for those interested in learning the craft.</p><h2>Get Out on the Water</h2><img alt="Hilton Head Island Kayak Tour "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-kayak-HHI0718.jpg?itok=1mniEdiZ"><p>From dolphin tours and historical excursions to neighboring <a href="https://www.hiltonheadisland.org/daufuskie" target="_blank">Daufuskie Island</a> to kayaking, paddle boarding, catamaran sailing, and tubing, there are ways to see Hilton Head Island by water at every speed. <a href="https://www.outsidehiltonhead.com" target="_blank">Outside Hilton Head</a> gives you the option of joining up with a group tour or planning a private tour just for you and your family and friends.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.outsidehiltonhead.com/hilton-head-kayaking/outback" target="_blank">Outback tour</a> combines dolphin-watching with a local history lesson and then drops you off on the adventure company's private island to explore before getting in a kayak and taking a guided tour along the marshes, where you'll paddle among dragonflies, birds like osprey and heron, see Native American oyster deposits, and likely spot even more dolphins.</p><h2>Explore by Bike</h2><img alt="Hilton Head Island bike path "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791717/hilton-head-island-biking.jpg?itok=VqYrf4u6"><p>There are more than 60 miles of bike paths on Hilton Head Island, making it easy and fun to navigate on two wheels. Whether it's a ride to the beach or a favorite lunch spot or just a scenic tour, you'll see people of all ages pedaling their way around the island at almost any time of day, humidity be damned. At low tide, cyclists can even be seen taking to the tight-packed sand beaches.</p><p>While many resorts and home rentals come with free bikes to use, shops offering bicycle rentals are scattered throughout the island, including <a href="http://www.hiltonheadbicycle.com" target="_blank">Hilton Head Bicycle Company</a>, <a href="http://www.hiltonheadbikerental.com/" target="_blank">LowSea Bike, Beach &amp; Baby Rentals</a>, <a href="http://www.bicyclebilly.com/" target="_blank">Bicycle Billy's</a>, and more. You can check out a <a href="https://www.hiltonheadisland.org/see-do/biking/biking-maps" target="_blank">map of the island's bike paths here</a> — and you can even get rental bikes delivered to your doorstep.</p><h2>Eat All the Seafood (and Don't Miss Happy Hour)</h2><img alt="Hilton Head Island seafood raw bar Sea Pines "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531868406/seafood-hilton-head-island.jpg?itok=EbROWyFL"><p>The culinary scene on Hilton Head Island is quickly evolving thanks to passionate chefs like Clayton Rollison, owner of the <a href="http://www.luckyroosterhhi.com/" target="_blank">Lucky Rooster</a>, where you can pair tasty southern-inspired bites from fried green tomatoes and oysters to bread cheese and chicken skins with on-draft craft cocktails. Then move on to the shrimp and grits and stay late for a thoroughly shaken Ramos Gin Fizz, which will knock you off your feet but comes with a promise to help you feel better in the morning (really).</p><p>For oceanfront dining, head to <a href="https://www.seapines.com/dining/sea-pines-beach-club/coast-oceanfront-dining.aspx" target="_blank">Coast</a> at Sea Pines for some blackened shrimp nachos, an elaborate raw bar selection, and fresh seafood specials. For barbecue, you'll want to stop at Food Network star Orchid Paulmeier's <a href="https://www.onehotmamas.com/" target="_blank">One Hot Mama's</a>.</p><img alt="Dockside Bar Hilton Head Island "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-dockside-HHI0718.jpg?itok=30xHJ2vQ"><p>And Hilton Head Island locals will be the first to tell you they love a good happy hour — which never lasts just an hour — so for all-day cocktails by the water, pull up a chair at <a href="https://www.docksidehhi.com/" target="_blank">Dockside</a> and leave the kids to play in the on-site nautical-themed playground.</p><h2>Make Yourself at Home</h2><img alt="Sea Pines Resort Hilton Head Island "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-sea-pines-club-house-HHI0718.jpg?itok=rc6mgFf_"><p>Hilton Head Island has <a href="https://www.hiltonheadisland.org/stay/hotels-inns-resorts" target="_blank">3,000 hotel rooms</a>, ranging from full-service resorts to quaint inns, the most iconic spot being the 5,000-acre oceanfront Sea Pines Resort on the island's southern tip. The resort's grounds include three championship golf courses, tennis courts, the marina that's home to the very recognizable Harbour Town Lighthouse, horseback riding trails, a beach club with live music, and a luxury boutique hotel, the <a href="https://www.seapines.com/accommodations/inn-at-harbour.aspx" target="_blank">Inn &amp; Club at Harbour Town</a>, voted one of the <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/resort-hotels-in-south#the-inn-at-harbour-town" target="_blank">top 10 resort hotels in the American South</a> in the 2018 World's Best Awards.</p><img alt="Sea Pines Resort horse Hilton Head Island "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531791321/HHI-sea-pines-HHI0718.jpg?itok=h2z5M58Z"><p>And Dru Brown, director of sales and marketing at <a href="http://www.vacationcompany.com/?utm_source=travelandleisure.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=travelandleasureart&amp;utm_content=Home" target="_blank">The Vacation Company</a>, says more visitors than ever are opting to rent private homes. “Vacation rentals made up only about 8 percent of travel about five years ago; now it’s well over a third of all vacations,” he said. “The personal and private space as well as the ability for everyone to be together but separate is a huge draw.”</p><img alt="House rental Hilton Head Island "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531866652/hilton-head-island-house-rental.jpeg?itok=cVfui3AR"><p>Of the 6,000 homes and villas available, Brown recommends renting in <a href="https://www.vacationcompany.com/hilton-head-rentals/forest-beach/?utm_source=travelandleisure.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=travelandleasureart&amp;utm_content=Home" target="_blank">North or South Forest Beach</a> to be close to <a href="http://colignyplaza.com/" target="_blank">Coligny Plaza</a>, the main downtown area with shops, restaurants, and bars, plus prime beach access. The <a href="https://www.vacationcompany.com/seacrest-oceanfront-resort?utm_source=travelandleisure.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=travelandleasureart&amp;utm_content=Home" target="_blank">SeaCrest</a> complex offers everything from one-bedrooms to four-plus-bedroom penthouse villas ranging from affordable to luxury. In the off-season, post-Labor Day until early March, Brown says you can find smaller villas for as low as $99 per night. He recommends booking within 30 days of arrival to score the best deal, but notes that many return visitors are booking their summer rentals over the winter holidays or even sooner, so if you have a specific place in mind, it's better to act fast.</p><img alt="House rental with pool Hilton Head Island "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531866652/hilton-head-island-house-rental-porch-pool.JPG?itok=MZQUwteC"><p>In addition to summer and <a href="https://rbcheritage.com/" target="_blank">RBC Heritage</a> in April, the area's biggest golf event, Brown said the winter holidays and Easter are popular times to visit, but the real best time to be in Hilton Head Island is the fall. “The locals will kill me for saying this, but I love the fall,” he said. “The weather is so great, it's warm enough to get in the water, there's far less tourist traffic, and you don't have to deal with the crowds. You get to enjoy what Hilton Head Island is all about.”</p><p>To find a rental, visit <a href="https://www.vacationcompany.com/?utm_source=travelandleisure.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=travelandleasureart&amp;utm_content=Home" target="_blank">vacationcompany.com</a>.</p><p><em>Note: Visit Hilton Head provided support for the reporting of this story.</em></p>

<p>While the Hollywood sign may be one of <a href="https://travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/los-angeles" target="_blank">Los Angeles</a>’s most well-known landmarks, it’s also one of the most contentious.</p><p>Griffith Park, where the sign is located, <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/hollywood-sign-trail" target="_blank">attracts about 10 million visitors every year</a>. Residents of the nearby Hollywood Hills have long complained about people wandering onto their property or taking up parking spaces on the narrow streets.</p><p>Warner Bros. is pitching a solution. The film production studio wants to build a $100 million aerial tram.</p><img alt="Conceptual drawing of proposed tram to Hollywood sign, from Warner Bros. "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531845634/warner-bros-tram-rendering-HOLLYTRAM0718.jpg?itok=uwWXfwyH"><p>In a letter to Los Angeles parks and legislative officials, Warner Bros. proposed building the “Hollywood Skyway.” The aerial tramway would start next to the Warner Bros. lot in Burbank and take tourists on a six-minute ride up the back of Mt. Lee. They would debark at a new visitors center and be able to walk on pathways to a viewing area.</p><p>The Los Angeles City Council will consider the proposal when it returns from summer recess, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-california-hollywoodsign/tramway-to-the-stars-studio-proposes-skyway-to-hollywood-sign-idUSKBN1K1003" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>. If approved, the tramway would take about five years to construct. Warner Bros. would charge to ride the tramway and split revenue with the city of Los Angeles.</p><p>“There's going to be a lot of people pushing for the tram for the relief it will provide the local residents,” Gerry Hans, board member for the nonprofit group Friends of Griffith Park, <a href="http://www.latimes.com/business/hollywood/la-fi-ct-hollywood-sign-sky-tram-20180710-story.html" target="_blank">told the <em>Los Angeles Times</em></a>. “But at the same time there are going to be people wanting to preserve Griffith Park for the great urban wilderness it is.”</p><p>This is not the first proposal for a tramway up to the Hollywood sign. Last year, philanthropist Alexander von Furstenberg <a href="https://variety.com/2017/biz/news/barry-diller-gondola-hollywood-sign-1202640003/" target="_blank">floated the idea of building a gondola</a> that would take visitors from the L.A. Zoo up close to the sign.</p>

<p>I was stuck in the mud when the wild pigs arrived.</p><p>It wasn’t just any mud: it was Amazonian mud, in one of the wildest stretches of <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/animals/tropical-rainforest-animals" target="_blank">rain forest</a> a boat can safely reach. I had come to the Tambopata National Reserve, more than a thousand protected square miles in southeastern Peru, on a visit organized by Rainforest Expeditions, a tour operator that owns and manages lodges where travelers can experience the biodiversity of the region while assisting the scientists working there. I was looking at a band-tailed manakin, a bird the size of a teacup and the color of sunset, putting on a show for a prospective mate. It crossed my mind, as I watched the manakin displaying its plumage, that I’d never seen anything more beautiful.</p><img alt="Refugio Amazonas lodge in Peru "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531780308/macaws-flying-in-peru-PERUMACAWS0718.jpg?itok=r8E3lQBR"><p>Then I caught the scent of the pigs.</p><p>The day before, I had traveled by plane from <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/lima" target="_blank">Lima</a> to the rain-forest city of Puerto Maldonado, where I was met by Silverio Duri, my guide. On the four-hour boat ride from Infierno, an indigenous settlement, to the Tambopata Research Center, the lodge where I would be spending the next two nights, Silverio had cautioned me about the pigs—white-lipped peccaries, to be exact. “They’re generally harmless,” he told me, “but don’t get in the way of a herd. Their tusks are sharp as razors.</p><p>“Razors,” I repeated, trying to sound casual. “Okay.”</p><p>“If they surround you, bonk them on the nose.”</p><p>This tip should have made an impression on me. I quickly forgot it, however, dining on chicken in coca sauce and sipping passion-fruit nectar on my first night at TRC’s newly expanded ecotourism accommodations. The spectacular macaws for which this region is famous distracted me as well, to say nothing of the half-dozen species of monkey whose howls echoed through the forest. Though great care has been taken in the design of the center’s thatch-roofed suites, which have tropical wood floors and décor by indigenous artists, visitors come for the wildlife, and the management knows it. The mosquito netting of my canopy bed was all that separated me from the jungle. Visions of jaguars, which can occasionally be seen in Tambopata, danced in my head until dawn.</p><p>Peccaries, not so much.</p><p>Now, up to my shins in muck, I remembered Silverio’s warning. The smell of the pigs hit me first: a musty pong that reminded me of certain New York subway cars in summer. By the time the first one came into view, the smell was so overpowering that I felt almost drunk. Silverio whispered to keep absolutely still: he wanted to see how close the herd would come before we spooked them. Very close, it turned out. Suddenly they were everywhere, hundreds of them, grunting and clacking their tusks, flowing around us like a river.</p><p><img src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/orange-line-3.jpg" /></p><p>Encounters with peccaries, monkeys, capybaras, and other creatures are common in Tambopata, but the reserve is particularly renowned for its clay licks: areas of exposed earth, generally along a riverbank, where a variety of jungle animals gather to ingest clay. The TRC is the only permanent human habitation permitted in the reserve, having been grandfathered in when the area became officially protected in 2000. Biologists had been studying the ecology of the nearby clay licks for 16 years by then, attempting to understand the significance of the greasy pink clay to the metabolism of the <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/animals/peta-lawsuit-macaque-monkey-selfies" target="_blank">monkeys</a>, parakeets, and macaws that risk their lives to feed on it in broad daylight, in plain view of potential predators. The likely answer turns out to be fairly straightforward—the clay is high in sodium and other vital minerals. At feeding time, the sight of hundreds of birds clinging raucously to the riverbank in a fluttering curtain of primary color borders on the psychedelic.</p><p>Silverio woke me before dawn on my first morning at Tambopata, and we took a boat, with a handful of other ornithologically minded guests, to a wooded bluff a stone’s throw from the reserve’s most famous lick. It wasn’t long before the birds started coming, in a trickle at first, then in a deluge. Gaudy though they are, parrots and macaws are hard to see in the jungle, generally keeping to the higher strata of the canopy, where they look black or gray against the sky. But at the clay licks they crowded against one another like commuters, jostling and screeching between greedy mouthfuls. Sitting comfortably on a folding campstool, feasting my eyes on the spectacle and my stomach on passion-fruit pound cake, I felt as decadent as it’s possible to feel in the middle of the wilderness.</p><p>Impact-conscious tourism in the Amazon has seen a boom in recent years, but Rainforest Expeditions offers nature lovers an experience few competitors can match: the opportunity to collaborate with a biologist doing cutting-edge work in the field. Through the company’s Wired Amazon series of projects, visitors can use camera traps to study nighttime jaguar movements or drone footage to track the reproductive status of Brazil-nut trees, then follow the project from home and even continue contributing to its database.</p><img alt="Refugio Amazonas in Peru "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531780308/refugio-amazonas-lodge-PERUMACAWS0718.jpg?itok=rGkR22RV"><p>The term for this type of tourist-scientist collaboration, which has been put into practice in regions as far-flungas New Zealand and Norway, is <em>citizen science</em>, and the experts are as excited about the possibilities as the guests. “Research in the Amazon is expensive, and government funding, especially in the U.S., is as endangered as the animals we study,” Alex Borisenko, a Canadian biodiversity specialist I met at breakfast, told me. “Citizen science is looking more and more like the future of fieldwork. It’s also fun.”</p><p>At the Refugio Amazonas, a Rainforest Expeditions lodge located just outside the reserve, guests can assist Juan Grados Arauco, an entomologist at Lima’s Museum of Natural History, in collecting specimens of tiger moth. They even have the opportunity, should one of the moths prove to be unknown to science, to give the new species its name. I felt slightly inclined to roll my eyes at this, until I was informed that 11 new tiger moths had been recorded in only the past 16 months. Then I wanted to find my own.</p><img alt="Red Cracker (Hamadryas amphinome), Tambopata-Candamo Nature Reserve, Peru "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531780308/red-cracker-butterfly-peru-PERUMACAWS0718.jpg?itok=BEPd-6TN"><p>The night I worked with Juan, we trooped through the twilit forest in clunky rubber boots to the collection site. We hadn’t been there long before a glossy black projectile hit me heavily on the thigh as I was collecting moths from a “light trap,” which is basically a white sheet hung between trees with a lamp behind it. I was startled to find a baseball-size bug preparing to wage war with my heel.</p><p>“Rhino beetle!” Juan said, as wonder-struck as I was. He gingerly removed it from my boot and showed me the surprisingly delicate wings hidden under its shell. I’ve had a mild phobia of insects since childhood, but that night I was too fascinated to care. As we continued to gather specimens, some bound for the national collection back in Lima, Juan described watching from the branches of an ironwood tree as a stream of army ants flowed past, devouring everything organic in its path. It’s a testament to his gift for arousing scientific curiosity that I listened with a twinge of envy.</p><p><img src="http://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/orange-line-3.jpg" /></p><p>It’s a cliché that we travel to forget our mundane lives in exotic locales. But I, for one, travel to recover the past: to be knocked back to the person I was at eight years old, when I hadn’t a doubt that the world beyond our fly-over town was as action-packed and strange as adventure novels made it seem. This inner time travel doesn’t happen often, but my encounter with the peccaries was one such moment.</p><p>The vast herd thundered past, but didn’t scare off the tiny birds above us. The jewel-like male manakin continued its show on that low-hanging branch, a dot of resplendent calm in all the tumult. I stood rooted in place, catching snatches of its song.</p><p>Suddenly a fruit bat appeared, its wingspan as long as my arm, startled from its daytime sleep by the arrival of the pigs. It circled us in silent panic, close enough that I could feel the beat of its wings. This was exactly how, as an eight-year-old, I’d imagined the rain forest: a continuous pageant, so teeming with life that there was barely space for one more living creature. Here was the jungle of my childhood imagination, in all its fluttering, grunting, twittering, stinking glory. I may never wash that pink mud off my shoes.<i> </i></p>

<p>Dubai is certainly well-known for being an <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/dubai" target="_blank">over-the-top travel destination</a>, and with some of the most luxurious hotels, designer clothing stores, and world-class restaurants, it’s more than earned that descriptor. But soon, it may become more famous for its farming. </p><p>Emirates Flight Catering, a subsidiary of Emirates Group, announced in June a new partnership with Crop One Holdings. The pair of companies, <a href="https://gulfnews.com/business/sectors/technology/world-s-largest-vertical-farming-facility-in-dubai-1.2242405" target="_blank"><em>Gulf News</em> reported</a>, will co-invest $40 million to create an absolutely massive indoor farm in Dubai that will break the vertical farming world record.</p><img alt="Emirates Vertical Farm "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531238362/emirates-vertical-farm-greens-VERTFARMEMI0718.jpg?itok=bevGC6bi"><p>The farm, which is set to open next year, will produce the equivalent of 900 acres of fresh food, <i>Gulf News</i> reported. That means it will produce three tons of “high-quality, herbicide-free and pesticide-free leafy greens daily.”</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/emirates-flight-attendant" target="_blank">Here’s What It Takes to Become a Flight Attendant With Emirates</a></p><p>However, it will produce all this food using far less water than traditional farming, and will also grow produce without soil, sunlight, and chemicals. It will indeed mark a massive step for the United Arab Emirates towards become more self-sustainable. As <i>Gulf News</i> explained, a massive amount of the food consumed in the UAE comes from foreign markets. According to 2015 data, 85 percent of the UAE’s food was imported.</p><img alt="Emirates Vertical Farm "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531238362/emirates-vertical-farm-VERTFARMEMI0718.jpg?itok=ByJ0-A4L"><p>“This investment to build and operate the world’s largest vertical farming facility aligns with the UAE’s drive for more agricultural self-sufficiency, a vision which began with the late His Highness Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father,” Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline and Group said in an announcement. “The introduction of ground-breaking technology at the facility also enhances Dubai’s position as a global innovation hub.”</p><p>According to the announcement, the two companies expect to be delivering their first batch of produce to their customers (which include their 105 airlines and 25 airport lounges) by December of 2019.</p>

<p>It’s been nearly a year since the <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/travel-warnings/sonoma-valley-fire-update" target="_blank">devastating wildfires in Napa Valley</a>, and the region has <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/wine/napa-sonoma-travel-after-wildfires" target="_blank">welcomed wine lovers back in a big way.</a> Now, one of California's biggest star chefs is helping visitors get in on the action and help the recovery effort in style.</p><p>Chef Nobu Matsuhisa is a dedicated fan of Napa Valley wine — sourcing a Napa Cabernet as one of the house wines for all of his restaurants. And recently, his Bay Area hotel property joined forces with the many hospitality partners championing a strong return to Napa tourism following the 2017 fires.</p><img alt="Napa Nobu Epiphany hotel "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531844611/napa-nobu-hotel-epiphany-NAPANOBU0718.jpg?itok=dN0ZKq1x"><p><a href="https://www.nobuhotels.com/palo-alto" target="_blank">Nobu Hotel Epiphany Palo Alto</a> is now offering a brand-new luxury culinary experience that allows guests to combine a city stay and a wine country getaway. The exclusive weekend package brings the Nobu experience on the road, with amenities like Nobu’s own selection of California wines, curated meals, and behind-the-scenes wine tastings.</p><p>The hotel, located in the heart of Silicon Valley — about 96 miles from wine country — serves as a luxurious home base. The package covers two nights in a stylish top-floor suite, with a private deck and expansive views of Palo Alto and the Santa Cruz Mountains; upon Friday check-in, guests receive a bottle of Nobu’s signature <a href="https://www.vivino.com/wineries/matsuhisa/wines/matsuhisa-private-selection-cabernet-sauvignon-2014" target="_blank">Matsuhisa Private Selection 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County</a>.</p><p>Saturday begins with breakfast at <a href="https://www.noburestaurants.com/paloalto/home/" target="_blank">Nobu Palo Alto</a>, where dishes include a bento with Umami Seabass and Jidori Chicken and Waffles. From there, guests head to Palo Alto Airport, where a private Bell 206 helicopter awaits to zip guests to Napa in 35 minutes — a speed unattainable on the ground. Along for the ride is a complimentary “wine country kit,” packed with water, road snacks, and sunscreen.</p><img alt="Domaine Carners, in Napa Valley "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531844611/domaine-carneros-NAPANOBU0718.jpg?itok=bw_IQlsp"><p>Once in Napa, a luxury car service escorts guests on a tour of some of the most notable wineries in the area. First stop: <a href="https://www.domainecarneros.com/" target="_blank">Domaine Carneros</a>, founded by the family behind <a href="https://www.domainecarneros.com/" target="_blank">Champagne Taittinger</a>. Domaine Carneros is best known as a small grower-producer of Pinot Noir and <i>methóde traditionnelle</i> sparkling wine (made in the same way as French <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/wine/bubble-free-champagne" target="_blank">Champagne</a>, with the wine undergoing a secondary fermentation inside the bottle to create bubbles).</p><p>At the iconic Domaine Carneros chateau, Nobu guests are treated to a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the estate vineyards and winemaking process before settling in for a tasting and a luxurious snack of potato chips with caviar and crème fraiche.</p><img alt="Vineyards at Adler Deutsch "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531844611/adler-deutsch-winery-vines-NAPANOBU0718.jpg?itok=rYGd0bWT"><p>Next comes a visit to the <a href="https://www.adlerdeutsch.com/" target="_blank">Adler Deutsch Vineyard</a> on the edge of the West Rutherford Bench, a 3-mile stretch of land that boasts one of the greatest concentrations of exceptional wine producers in the world. Nobu guests will tour the private home and contemporary art collection of owner-vintners Robert Adler and Alexis Deutsch-Adler, who are still hands-on in the winemaking process.</p><p>With their team, the Adlers create a singular Cabernet Sauvignon wine expressing the terroir of their small, two-acre vineyard; guests are treated to a vertical tasting (one bottling over the course of years, with multiple vintages) guided by Robert and accompanied by a cheese and charcuterie spread.</p><img alt="Nobu signature yellowtail sashimi dish "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531844611/nobu-yellowtail-sashimi-NAPANOBU0718.jpg?itok=6n7Gjqe9"><p>The return helicopter ride returns guests to their suite in time for an omakase dinner at <a href="https://www.noburestaurants.com/paloalto/home/" target="_blank">Nobu Palo Alto</a>, personally prepared by Executive Chef Marlowe Lawenko behind the counter alongside Executive Sushi Chef Kihyun Seol. A coveted reservation since its July 2017 opening as the first Nobu restaurant in Northern California, the experience includes Nobu signature dishes such as Black Cod with Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi Jalapeño, and world-renowned sushi, enhanced with locally sourced greens and vegetables.</p><p>Want to keep the experience going after you leave? Guests will leave the weekend with a signed copy of “<a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/nobus-vegetarian-cookbook-nobu-matsuhisa/1102790134" target="_blank">Nobu’s Vegetarian Cookbook</a>” and two Adler Deutsch bottles to take home.</p><p>To book: <a href="https://www.nobuhotels.com/palo-alto/offers.html" target="_blank">nobuhotels.com</a>; package from $11,500 for two guests (Friday through Sunday only)</p><p><strong><em>Our series <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/reasons-to-travel" target="_blank">Reasons to Travel Now</a> highlights the news, events, and openings that have us scoping out plane tickets each day.</em></strong></p>

<p>Most travelers can agree that gate checking their bags can be a hassle, but it’s a necessary hassle nonetheless in order to get to where you’re going.</p><p>Unfortunately, there are some out there who need to stand their ground on keeping their carry-ons, even if it means holding up everyone else.</p><p>A woman delayed a United Airlines flight from Indianapolis to Newark on Monday after refusing to gate check an oversized bag. <a href="https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2018/07/17/indianapolis-flight-delayed-after-passenger-refuses-gate-check-bag/794163002/" target="_blank">The <em>Indy Star</em> reported</a> that the woman became “verbally abusive” toward crew members, according to the airline, and refused to leave the plane when asked to deboard.</p><p>Other passengers attempted to help the woman with her bag, but were unable to fit it in the overhead bin.</p><p>Eventually, other arrangements were made for the woman on another flight. However, after the woman had left the aircraft, the remaining passengers, unfortunately were also asked to return to the terminal.</p><p>“Most people were not really that upset. Most were in good spirits and laughing,” one passenger told the <em>Indy Star</em>. “One of the ticketing agents came and played with our 8-month-old for almost an hour.”</p><p>“A customer on United Express flight 3708 from Indianapolis to Newark was asked to check her oversized bag, and she refused to do so,” United Airlines said in a statement. “She became verbally abusive to the crew and they asked her to leave the aircraft. The customer refused and all customers were asked to deplane. To minimize the inconvenience to our customers, we arranged for a different aircraft to make the flight from Indianapolis to Newark last night.”</p>

<p> </p><p>Justin Timberlake may be busy on his world tour, but he always has time for a little romance with his wife, actress <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/jessica-biel-vegas-bachelorette" target="_blank">Jessica Biel</a>.</p><p>The famous duo was spotted this week in Amsterdam, taking a bit of time away from work to relax together as a family. Along the way, both Justin and Jessica shared a few sweet Instagram updates with their followers from the trip.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/celebrity-travel/jessica-biel-packing-hack" target="_blank">Jessica Biel’s Travel Hack Will Completely Change the Way You Pack</a></p><p>In one Instagram story, Biel casually fixed her hair while looking into the camera. Timberlake playfully called her out, asking with a laugh, “Did you just fix your hair?” She giggled in return saying, “Yeah, I did,” to which her husband complimented her, adding, “It was good already!”</p><p>It appeared the couple was taking a romantic boat ride through the Amsterdam’s famed canals. Breathtaking, we're sure, but this isn’t the only European city the duo has visited in recent weeks. On Instagram, Biel shared a snapshot of her alongside her husband as they took in Wimbledon.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/meghan-markle-hat-wimbledon-style-2018" target="_blank">Meghan Markle Brought Her Favorite Hat to Wimbledon but Wasn't Allowed to Wear It</a> </p><p>She also shared a series of images from her time in Paris just a few days prior.</p><p>Meanwhile, Timberlake posted an adorable photo of him and his wife as they checked out the glittering Eiffel Tower lights at night.</p><p>And he showed off his enviable accommodations in the City of Lights, which included a massive terrace overlooking the city.</p><p>Timberlake even posted a rare snap of his son, Silas, with his wife in Paris.</p><p>And closing out their adventure photos, Timberlake shared a clip from his new song, <i>Soulmate</i>, as he made his way down the River Thames in London.</p><p>If you want to travel through Europe just like the Timberlakes, start by checking out <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/cities-in-europe" target="_blank">2018's best European cities</a> and <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/resort-hotels-in-europe" target="_blank">best European resort hotels</a>.</p>

<p>If it feels like it’s taking forever to post your travel memories to Instagram or load a page on the restaurant recommendations, it may not be your hotel Wi-Fi’s fault. It could be that the country’s internet infrastructure is slow. But, surprisingly, some seemingly remote locations have some of the world’s fastest internet connections.</p><p><a href="https://www.cable.co.uk/broadband/research/worldwide-broadband-speed-league-2018/#highlights" target="_blank">According to the World Broadband Speed League ranking from U.K. analyst Cable</a>, the African island of Madagascar has some of the fastest internet speeds in the world. At 24.9 megabits per second, Madagascar’s internet is more than twice as fast as the global average. With the 22nd fastest internet in the world, Madagascar’s speed outpaces France, the U.K., and Canada.</p><p>The high speeds are due to the creation of the East African Submarine Cable System. The underwater fiber-optic cable stretches from Sudan to South Africa. But even with the incredible speeds, it may be difficult to connect in Madagascar. It’s estimated that <a href="https://qz.com/1328407/madagascars-internet-beats-uk-and-france/" target="_blank">only two percent of the population</a> has internet access on the island country.</p><p>In terms of hyperconnectivity, your best bet is Singapore. The city-state has the fastest internet connection in the world and 82 percent of residents have access to it.</p><p>Scandinavian countries rounded out the fastest contenders. Sweden, Denmark and Norway (in that order) boast pure fibre connections, giving residents and visitors some of the world’s fastest connections.</p><p>The U.S. comes in 20th for internet speed, meaning there are 19 other countries on this planet (including Belgium, Japan, and Spain) where you will be pleasantly surprised by the amount of time it takes to download something.</p>

<p>Delta fired four employees because they were “violating ticketing and fare rules” by giving out free upgrades.</p><p>Ji-Won Kim, Lilian Park, Jean Yi and Jongjin An were desk and gate agents for Delta at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport until they were fired in December 2017.</p><p>The four women claim in a lawsuit that they were discriminated against for speaking Korean at work, even though they were hired for their ability to do so and often worked with passengers flying between Seattle and Seoul, <a href="https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/delta-employees-claim-they-were-fired-for-speaking-korean/790694141" target="_blank">KIRO 7 reported</a>. The lawsuit also alleges that the women were targeted after reporting sexual harassment in the workplace.</p><p>“Offering free upgrades, especially on an oversold flight, is a common practice,” Kim told KIRO 7. “But suddenly, it became a reason to be terminated.”</p><p>According to the lawsuit, the four women who were all born in Korea, were told to “limit speaking Korean” as it made non-Korean-speaking employees uncomfortable. The women say that no other foreign-language-speaking employees were given the same instructions.</p><p>“We take allegations of workplace harassment and discrimination very seriously and our investigations into allegations made by these former employees were found to be without merit,” a Delta spokesperson said in a statement. “These former employees were unfortunately but appropriately terminated because the company determined they violated ticketing and fare rules. Delta is confident that these claims will ultimately be determined to be without merit.”</p><p>Gate agents are under pressure to make flights leave on time, which means ensuring everybody has a seat. When main cabin seats are oversold, airlines will issue “operational upgrades” to select passengers. The upgrades are <a href="http://www.godsavethepoints.com/2018/07/18/airline-fires-employees-giving-out-flight-upgrades/" target="_blank">decided mostly via algorithm</a> but gate agents may select random passengers to move up when they are in a rush. Factors at play include a passenger’s elite status, previous ticket purchases, and type of ticket purchased.</p>

<p>Gloria Estefan and her family brought the rhythm to Disney World last month, and now you can see what they did.</p><p>Gloria and Emilio Estefan, along with their grandson, Sasha, celebrated Sasha’s sixth birthday by previewing <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/disney-vacations/toy-story-land-secrets" target="_blank">Toy Story Land</a> at Disney's Hollywood Studios, according to <a href="http://wdwnews.com/galleries/2018/06/28/gloria-estefan-celebrates-grandsons-birthday-at-toy-story-land/" target="_blank">Walt Disney World News</a>.</p><img alt="Gloria Estefan, Emilio Estefan and Grandson at Toy Story Land at Disney World "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531930911/Gloria-Emilio-Estefan-Sasha-TSLGEE0718.jpg?itok=Ib7z_fc0"><p>The Estefans rode the new <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/disney-vacations/toy-story-land-slinky-dog-dash" target="_blank">Slinky Dog Dash</a> roller coaster and explored the new themed land based on the hit Disney-Pixar movie franchise. They even met with Woody at the park.</p><p>“I had a great time,” Gloria Estefan says in the video. “Having my grandson next to me on this ride is just beyond.”</p><p>Toy Story Land officially opened on June 30, and along with the Slinky Dog coaster, guests can ride flying saucers with the movie’s cute green aliens and play tons of Toy Story-themed games.</p>

<p>Want to get paid for a job you could literally do with your eyes closed? We’ve got the position for you.</p><p>Online mattress retailer <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/airlines-airports/simba-sleep-mattress-airplane-seat" target="_blank">Simba</a> and task-outsourcing platform Airtasker are looking for three candidates to join a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCLukr7BC0c" target="_blank">“dream team”</a> and track their sleep for one month in a study on sleep habits.</p><p>The three chosen candidates will be paid £600, or about $783, and receive a complimentary Simba mattress and Fitbit Versa, both of which will be used as part of the task.</p><p>Each member of the dream team will be asked to wear the Fitbit Versa to track daytime activity and its affect on nightly sleeping habits for the month. The company will monitor the data from the Fitbits to determine how sleeping patterns change with lifestyle habits.</p><p>Those interested in applying can do so on <a href="https://www.airtasker.co.uk/tasks/sleep-testers-needed-for-dream-task-10661916/" target="_blank">Airtasker's website</a>. The application, which is due by August 9, involves providing a funny or memorable story about sleeping.</p>

<p>It’s not too early to start planning your fall — and even winter — getaways, especially if you’re looking to score a deal. </p><p>And speaking of deals, a variety of airlines are offering <a href="https://www.google.com/flights#flt=/m/02_286..2018-08-03*./m/02_286.2018-08-07;c:USD;e:1;sd:1;t:h" target="_blank">cheap flights</a> from the U.S. to popular <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/europe" target="_blank">European</a> hotspots right now. Some of the cheapest tickets include Reykjavik, Iceland, where you can spot the Northern Lights from around <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/iceland-when-to-see-northern-lights" target="_blank">November to March</a>, Barcelona, Spain, and Helsinki, Finland, where you can spend the holiday season exploring beloved <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/best-christmas-markets-in-europe" target="_blank">Christmas markets</a>.</p><p>From the East Coast, travelers heading out of New York City can hit Paris for $334 round-trip from September through November, Oslo for $310 round-trip from October through December, Dublin for $340 round-trip in November, London for $336 round-trip from January through March, and Rome for $384 round-trip in October and November. </p><p>Newark deals include $300 round-trip flights to Helsinki from October through December, and Boston-based fliers will find round-trip flights starting at just $240 to Iceland. </p><p>Boston deals also include $264 round-trip flights to Barcelona, $332 round-trip flights to Paris, $320 round-trip flights to Berlin, and $320 round-trip flights to Copenhagen. </p><p>From Washington, D.C., travelers can book flights to Iceland starting at $220 round-trip in September, to Dublin at $362-round trip from January through March, and to Oslo for $370 round-trip from October to December.</p><p>West coast fliers can take round-trip flights from Los Angeles to Iceland for $300 round-trip in September and to Barcelona for $398-round trip from January to March.</p><p>Meanwhile, San Francisco deals include round-trip flights ranging from $260 to $280 to Iceland from September through December, and round-trip flights to Copenhagen starting at $313 in October and November.</p><p>You can also visit Stockholm, Sweden, for just $320 round-trip from Chicago, and Chicago flights to London start at $360 round-trip in the fall. </p>

<p>A crucial stretch of California's <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/road-trips/road-trip-guide-pacific-coast-highway-california-route-1" target="_blank">Highway 1</a> running from Cambria to Carmel is finally ready to welcome drivers once again after closing for a full 18 months.</p><img alt="Recreational vehicle on Highway 1, California "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531930497/highway-1-california-rv-HWYONEOPEN0718.jpg?itok=NAf0AiQ1"><p>The famed section, which is just a piece of the massive highway that runs along nearly the entirety of the U.S. Pacific Coast, was buried under a massive mudslide in May 2017. At the time, <a href="http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-big-sur-pch-mudslide-20170523-htmlstory.html" target="_blank">a Caltrans spokesperson told the <em>Los Angeles Times</em></a> mud covered a third of a mile of Highway 1 in rock and dirt nearly 40 feet deep. The spokesperson added that the damage was “unprecedented.”</p><p>However, Wednesday’s reopening meant that the state agency was able to open the section of highway to drivers a full two months earlier than expected and a full two days before an official ribbon cutting.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/woman-survives-after-driving-off-cliff-in-big-sur" target="_blank">Woman Survived for 7 Days Stranded on a Beach After Driving Off 200-foot Cliff in Big Sur</a></p><p>According to Chamber President Mel McColloch, who spoke to the <a href="https://www.sanluisobispo.com/news/local/article215042145.html" target="_blank">Cambria Chamber of Commerce</a>, members should “be prepared for an influx of tourists in the coming weeks.” He added, “the Chamber is proud of our members for the way they managed during the difficult 18-month closure.”</p><p>One of those members is the Hearst Castle, which is adding a number of tours for visitors upon the reopening.</p><p>“We’ve already got our playbook pretty well laid out,” Dan Falat, a superintendent of the State Parks district that includes the castle, told <em><a href="https://www.sanluisobispo.com/news/local/article215042145.html" target="_blank">The Tribune</a></em>. He added that his team did extensive planning earlier this year based on “the long-term perception that Highway 1 would reopen sometime soon, and it’s much easier for us to plan for full capacity than to switch midstream and add capacity later.”</p><p>This, however, may not be the last time we see Mother Nature shift the road along Highway 1.</p><img alt="Highway 1 turn with ocean "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531930497/highway-1-california-turn-HWYONEOPEN0718.jpg?itok=pLy7RPCh"><p>“This has sort of been the history of this coast from the beginning,” John Duffy, an engineering geologist in Pismo Beach, who also consulted on rebuild, told the<i> </i><em><a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Highway-1-along-Big-Sur-coast-to-reopen-Wednesday-13082952.php" target="_blank">San Francisco Chronicle</a></em>. “It’s an emerging coastline geologically speaking, and it’s in a constant state of trying to come to some stability. All of the factors that have made it such a beautiful place also make it a challenging place to maintain a road.”</p><p>Still, for now, the $54-million rebuild will allow visitors to traverse Big Sur once again. So maybe <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/pacific-coast-highway-itinerary" target="_blank">plan a trip down the Pacific Coast Highway soon</a> before the rainy season begins again.</p>

<p>A setting can be just as important as the company you keep when it comes to having a good <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/romantic-getaways" target="_blank">date</a>.</p><p>Whether you’re looking to have <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/americas-favorite-places/cities-for-brunch" target="_blank">brunch</a> or try a themed bar, OkCupid and <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/best-places-for-comfort-food-in-us" target="_blank">Yelp</a> have put together a collection of the top spots to try across nine different categories in eight popular U.S. cities, with each spot chosen based on over 200,000 votes from OkCupid's users. </p><p>Some cities, like Boston, incorporate the larger metro area to include places like Cambridge, since a large majority of OkCupid's users are based there. </p><p>Below, you'll find a breakdown of the top date spots across each city as part of OkCupid's <a href="https://protect-us.mimecast.com/redirect/eNpVkc1u3CAUhV8FsTaOsU3G9irptMu2i9EsWkWyML6aIYMB8dN2EuXde0lHirpD95zD5Xy80qB8ohN9hhi1krU3MqeXhxTkLzDSrgZ0zAFq5TZaUeMUnZqKBoy0FYWoVzrthpaLttmJiqYtfXMr4H1N06Ffezy2zVgPom55V4seh76ERFfRHAzK55R8nJ7unu7SGRbjTrW7qIymsvN9yBaIieFuadgqk7YnFr1LkWnLipxZZFIpF9YiJcc8OG-A_T47nKcsjbmWILB26dt-GeFejCO-BErzLz_n46HjjDfz_nh45Jw_Cj63DR-aHRczn3NMELaeYSU29qPohh0fSg-JMOhHBkcKvW6DoP5B-E-Ldg2lrrRWni_q4QrG37AGOGlnUfTBJVCJ5VhvegMlY7pZYl6e0fADQ-QP-X7ZF0IT-YRkyGesRg6FCNGWIBFyPJBSgL7_yFeXLRKntx707S-4A5ze" target="_blank">2018 Dater’s Choice Awards</a>. </p><h2>In Austin:</h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/snooze-an-am-eatery-austin-7" target="_blank">Snooze an Am Eatery</a>: </strong>Originally started in Denver, this breakfast-focused spot puts a twist on American staples, offering dishes like a chile verde benny made with green chili topped tortillas, pulled pork or barbacoa style beef, eggs, and a green chili hollandaise.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/cheer-up-charlies-austin-2?osq=Cheer+Up+Charlies" target="_blank">Cheer Up Charlie’s</a>:</strong> This lively bar offers vegan eats, a colorful interior, and a large outdoor music venue in the back for dancing the night away.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/epicsup-austin-3?osq=EpicSup+Paddle+Boarding" target="_blank">EpicSup Paddle Boarding</a>: </strong>Take your date paddle boarding or kayaking along Lady Bird Lake, where you’ll get views over the boardwalk and can explore nearby islands and coves.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/driskill-bar-austin-2?osq=The+Driskill+Bar" target="_blank">The Driskill Bar</a>: </strong>This bar at the Driskill Hotel is modeled to take you back to the olden days of Texas, with cozy leather sofas and drinks that include everything from housemade jalapeño-blackberry juice to barrel-aged maple syrup.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/torchys-tacos-austin-17?osq=Torchy%27s+Tacos" target="_blank">Torchy’s Tacos</a>:</strong> Grab one of these large tacos, whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, without breaking the bank. Tacos come with intriguing ingredients that range from ahi tuna to jerk chicken topped with mango and sour cream.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/jos-coffee-austin?osq=Jo%27s+Coffee" target="_blank">Jo’s Coffee</a>: </strong>This pastel green coffee shop started in 1999 has “I love you so much” written on its colorful walls outdoors to make for a romantic photo op. <strong>Spot that Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-blanton-museum-of-art-austin" target="_blank">Blanton Museum of Art</a></strong>: Spend some time chatting over the close to 18,000 works that line the walls of Austin’s primary art collection hub, whether you’re into Greek pottery or abstract expressionism.<strong>Spots Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/whislers-austin-2?osq=Whisler%27s" target="_blank">Whistler’s</a></strong>: This spot is located in a 100-year-old building and houses a Mezcal bar where you’ll find more than 100 bottles and rare varieties. Grab some Thai street food specialties when it comes time for dinner. <strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/midnight-cowboy-austin" target="_blank">Midnight Cowboy</a>:</strong> This lustrous speakeasy includes a menu of rotating seasonal drinks that incorporate innovative ingredients like ricotta honey.<h2>In Boston: </h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/lulus-allston-boston-4?osq=Lulu%27s+Allston" target="_blank">Lulu’s Allston</a>:</strong> Whether you like sweet or savory bites in the morning, this spot offers selections that range from mini donuts and Cajun tater tots to drinks like a pineapple coconut mimosa. The best part is their full menu is served until 1 a.m.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/lolita-cocina-and-tequila-bar-back-bay-boston" target="_blank">Lolita Cocina and Tequila Bar</a>:</strong> This might be a cantina, but your décor here comes with a dark twist. Think red glass chandeliers, candle-lit tables, and plush couches.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-lawn-on-d-boston?osq=Lawn+on+D" target="_blank">Lawn on D</a>:</strong> At this outdoor interactive space, you’ll find an array of rotating events throughout the year, from art exhibits to games like ping pong, plus walkways you can explore year-round.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/noir-cambridge" target="_blank">Noir</a>: </strong>Watch a noir film while sipping on cocktails, wine, or beer at this bar located inside the Charles Hotel.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/charlies-kitchen-cambridge?osq=Charlie%27s+Kitchen" target="_blank">Charlie’s Kitchen</a>:</strong> This multi-floor space offers '50s-style treats on its ground floor, burgers to enjoy outdoors, and a playful jukebox upstairs. <strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/top-of-the-hub-boston?osq=Top+of+the+Hub" target="_blank">Top of the Hub</a>:</strong> Take in the views of Boston’s skyline from 52 floors up in the air.<strong>Spot that Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/museum-of-fine-arts-boston?osq=MFA" target="_blank">Museum of Fine Arts</a>: </strong>You’ll find close to 500,000 works of art in this museum.<strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/eastern-standard-kitchen-and-drinks-boston-3" target="_blank">Eastern Standard</a>: </strong>Indulge in drinks made with fennel and strawberry Campari and stick around for late-night bites like short rib sandwiches.<strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/a4cade-by-area-four-cambridge" target="_blank">A4cade</a>:</strong> Bring out your inner child at this arcade-themed bar offering grilled cheeses in the front, and plenty of games in the back. <h2>In Chicago:</h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/lula-cafe-chicago-3?osq=Lula+Café" target="_blank">Lula Café</a>: </strong>This breakfast and brunch spot focuses on seasonal ingredients, giving you dishes like almond corn cake with yogurt or potato crepes topped with short ribs.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/slippery-slope-chicago-9" target="_blank">Slippery Slope</a>:</strong> Enjoy drinks, music, dancing, and skeeball all in one place at this bar.<strong>Fitness &amp; Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/urban-kayaks-chicago-5?osq=Urban+Kayaks%5C" target="_blank">Urban Kayaks</a>: </strong>See Chicago through its historic river onboard these kayak cruises.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/cindys-chicago?osq=Cindy%27s+Rooftop" target="_blank">Cindy’s</a>:</strong> Located in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy’s offers you seasonal drinks and punches to enjoy while overlooking views of Millennium Park from its vaulted glass and steel rooftop setting.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/90-miles-cuban-café-chicago-5?osq=90+Miles+Cuban+Café" target="_blank">90 Miles Cuban Café</a>:</strong> This B.Y.O.B. spot also incorporates a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, flamenco and paella nights each Tuesday, and an all-you-can-eat pig roast every Thursday.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/punch-house-chicago?osq=Punch+House" target="_blank">Punch House</a>:</strong> Punches are the specialty here, and they’re available by the cup, carafe, or bowl.<strong>Spot that Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/adler-planetarium-chicago?osq=Adler+Planetarium" target="_blank">Adler Planetarium</a>: </strong>Learn all about the universe at this date destination dedicated to space.<strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-violet-hour-chicago?osq=The+Violet+Hour" target="_blank">The Violet Hour</a></strong>: To find this spot, look for a mural on the outside that has a light bulb indicating the entrance. Inside, you’ll find three different salons outlined with leather chairs and candlelit tables.<strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/three-dots-and-a-dash-chicago" target="_blank">Three Dots and a Dash</a>: </strong>This tropical tiki lounge is a hidden retreat offering concoctions made with fruity ingredients like passion fruit, watermelon, and starfuit.<h2>In Los Angeles:</h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/nighthawk-breakfast-bar-venice" target="_blank">Nighthawk Breakfast Bar</a>:</strong> Breakfast for dinner is the motto here, with elevated breakfast foods like benedict fries and cocktails like a Spiked Cereal Milk made with Cinnamon Toast Crunch-spiced rum taking the stage.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-varnish-los-angeles-2" target="_blank">The Varnish</a>:</strong> Located in a refurbished storage room, this bar offers a mix of both classic and modern cocktails and live jazz Sundays through Wednesdays.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date: <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/moonlight-rollerway-skating-rink-glendale" target="_blank">Moonlight Rollerway Skating Rink</a>:</strong> Head to this historic building once used to make parts for planes during the 1940s and enjoy rollerblading throughout the night.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/skybar-at-mondrian-west-hollywood" target="_blank">Skybar</a>:</strong> Located at The Mondrian, this open-air bar offers mesmerizing views over the city.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/smorgasburg-los-angeles?osq=Smorgasburg" target="_blank">Smorgasburg</a>:</strong> Head to this weekly outdoor market on Sundays to taste an array of sweet and savory delicacies from a range of food vendors.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/griffith-observatory-los-angeles-2?osq=Griffith+Observatory" target="_blank">Griffith Observatory</a>:</strong> Take in the city views outside or head inside to explore telescopes, exhibits, and live shows at the space’s planetarium.<strong>Spot That Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-broad-los-angeles-4" target="_blank">The Broad:</a> </strong>This contemporary art museum is home to two floors of exhibits that include Yayoi Kusama’s famed Infinity Mirror Rooms.<strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-edison-los-angeles" target="_blank">The Edison</a>: </strong>Take a step back in time at The Edison, which was made out of architectural artifacts pulled from the city’s first private power plant. <strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tiki-ti-cocktail-lounge-los-angeles" target="_blank">Tiki-ti</a>:</strong> With only 12 stools and a few tables, this small bar offers you a tiki space dating back to 1961 that's tiny but lively all at once. <h2>In New York City:</h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/sweet-chick-new-york?osq=Sweet+Chick" target="_blank">Sweet Chick</a>:</strong> Weekend brunches here include indulgent dishes like smoked pork hash and black bean cake scramble.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/house-of-yes-brooklyn" target="_blank">House of Yes</a>: </strong>This venue hosts themed events throughout the week that range from '70s rollerway parties to '80s-themed summer parties.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/chelsea-piers-manhattan-3" target="_blank">Chelsea Piers</a>: </strong>Choose from over 25 different sports, from rock climbing to golf. <strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-biergarten-at-the-standard-high-line-new-york?osq=Standard+Beer+Garden" target="_blank">Standard Beer Garden</a>:</strong> Underneath the High Line, this outdoor drinking spot offers plenty of beer, ping-pong tables, and taps that you can pour your own beer from right at your table in the summer.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/ramen-ya-new-york-5" target="_blank">Ramen-Ya</a>:</strong> Whether you’re looking for thin noodles, thick varieties, or ones made out of kale, you’ll find them here.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/mother-of-pearl-new-york" target="_blank">Mother of Pearl</a>:</strong> This Polynesian restaurant and cocktail bar offers island-like white décor and colorful cocktails that add brightness to your evening.<strong>Spot That Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/museum-of-the-moving-image-astoria" target="_blank">Museum of the Moving Image</a>: </strong>Learn everything there is to know about film, television, and digital media at this space housing exhibitions, programs, moving-image works, and artifacts.<strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-happiest-hour-new-york" target="_blank">The Happiest Hour</a>:</strong> This cocktail bar and restaurant is known for elevated dishes and cocktails that include sweet concoctions like strawberry and tequila drinks and savory sips like a red pepper and habanero mix served with your choice of mezcal, tequila, or gin.<strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/ottos-shrunken-head-new-york" target="_blank">Otto’s Shrunken Head</a>: </strong>This funky tiki-themed bar and lounge features live bands and DJs for whatever kind of night you’re in the mood for, and you’ll also find nights that feature spoken poetry, literary readings, film screenings, and karaoke.<h2>In Philadelphia:</h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/sabrinas-café-philadelphia-40?osq=Sabrina%27s+Café" target="_blank">Sabrina’s Café</a>: </strong>Sample bites like the Scooby Snacks — buttered potato rolls stuffed with caramelized onion hash browns and pork scrapple — or the Courage the Cowardly Dog Sandwich — a Po’ Boy served with cornflake-crusted shrimp — at this B.Y.O.B. spot.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tattooed-mom-philadelphia" target="_blank">Tattooed Mom</a>:</strong> Grab local beers, food, craft cocktails, or late-night snacks at this 20-year-old watering hole.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/schuylkill-river-trail-philadelphia?osq=Schuylkill+River+Trail" target="_blank">Schuylkill River Trail</a>: </strong>At almost 130 miles long, this trail offers plenty to enjoy, whether you want to walk or cycle.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/stratus-lounge-philadelphia" target="_blank">Stratus Rooftop Lounge</a>: </strong>Have a drink 11 stories above the city’s historic quarters while you sit surrounded by maple trees and a cozy fireplace.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/loco-pez-philadelphia" target="_blank">Loco Pez</a>: </strong>This cash-only spot inspired by Los Angeles’ food trucks serves tacos, burritos, and quesadillas as well as local beers, more than 25 tequilas, and tequila cocktails.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/spruce-street-harbor-park-philadelphia-5" target="_blank">Spruce Street Harbour Park</a>:</strong> At this outdoor playground, you can swing on hammocks, check out floating gardens, sip on craft beers, or try out foods from some of the city’s most popular restaurants.<strong>Spot That Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-franklin-institute-science-museum-philadelphia?osq=Franklin+Institute+After+Dark" target="_blank">Franklin Institute After Dark</a>: </strong>Head here for its after-hours programs and you can catch games and events, from cocktail-making sessions to time-traveling workshops. <strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/friday-saturday-sunday-philadelphia-4" target="_blank">Friday Saturday Sunday</a>: </strong>At this elegant space, you can start your night with cocktails like the Cheap Suit, blending gin, lemon-coriander shrub, and Cocchi Americano and continue the night with oysters and caviar.<strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/garage-philadelphia-2?osq=Garage" target="_blank">Garage</a>:</strong> Cans are all the rage at this bar, which allows you to bring your own food. You’ll find cold beers and whiskey and pickle backs. <h2>In San Francisco:</h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/nopa-san-francisco" target="_blank">Nopa</a>:</strong> This restaurant focuses on organic wood-fired cuisine, with its weekend brunch offering dishes like coconut pecan granola served with roasted peaches and a wood-grilled hamburger served with a basil aoli.<strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/el-rio-san-francisco?osq=El+Rio" target="_blank">El Rio</a>: </strong>Started back in 1978, this space serves up fun margaritas alongside a Bloody Barry bar with infused vodkas and hosts events throughout the month.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/dogpatch-boulders-san-francisco" target="_blank">Dogpatch Boulders</a>:</strong> This indoor bouldering venue offers 17-foot-high walls you can climb and a total of 17,000 square feet of climbing terrain.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="http://https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-view-lounge-san-francisco" target="_blank">The View Lounge</a>:</strong> Located in the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, this lounge incorporates small bites with dreamy views over the city to make for an unforgettable date.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/la-taqueria-san-francisco-2" target="_blank">La Taqueria</a>: </strong>Expect long lines at this eatery that serves burritos and tacos. A live mariachi band is on-site to accompany you while you wait for your meal.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/foreign-cinema-san-francisco" target="_blank">Foreign Cinema</a>: </strong>From fresh seafood selections like oyster and shellfish to meat dishes like a sirloin carpaccio and vegetarian plates incorporating seasonal ingredients, this eatery offers a dish for every palette. <strong>Spot That Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/california-academy-of-sciences-san-francisco" target="_blank">California Academy of Sciences</a>: </strong>Whether you’re looking to spend your day in an aquarium, planetarium, or a natural history museum, you can do it all in once place at the California Academy of Sciences.<strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/trick-dog-san-francisco" target="_blank">Trick Dog</a>:</strong> This venue’s award-winning cocktail menu is filled with drinks that look as good as they taste, whether you’re in the mood for a whiskey drink infused with coffee, beets, and cherry, or a rum cocktail made with pepper jam and thyme. Light bites include guacamole, roasted vegetables, seafood ceviche, and more.<strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/smugglers-cove-san-francisco" target="_blank">Smuggler’s Cove</a>:</strong> With the largest rum selection in the U.S., this rum-centered bar even incorporates the drink into its décor, with nautical touches that make for a playful setting.<h2>In Seattle: </h2><strong>Best Morning After Brunch—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/5-spot-seattle?osq=5+Spot" target="_blank">5 Spot</a>:</strong> Pair a Bloody Mary or mimosa with choices like a biscuit split and stuffed with sausage gravy and eggs or scrambled eggs topped with avocado, scallions, cheese, and red potatoes. <strong>No Judgment Make-out Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/lava-lounge-seattle" target="_blank">Lava Lounge</a>:</strong> This casual spot hosts shuffleboards, arcade games, and tropical drinks.<strong>Fitness and Wellness Date—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/seattle-bouldering-project-seattle" target="_blank">Seattle Bouldering Project</a>: </strong>Another bouldering space, this venue offers climbing classes and activities like yoga and weights to get you active.<strong>Best Hotel Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/stoneburner-seattle" target="_blank">Stoneburner</a>:</strong> Located on the ground floor of Hotel Ballard, this restaurant and bar will get your evening off to a fresh start with cocktails ranging from sweet choices like cinnamon bark syrup and bourbon, to zesty selections like gin served with absinthe, orange bitter, and lemon.<strong>Cheap Eats—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/katsu-burger-seattle" target="_blank">Katsu Burger</a>:</strong> Japanese fusion means you can expect burgers with a twist here, whether you order a curry-powered pork loin burger or a miso-marinated tofu burger.<strong>Photo Friendly Spot—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-london-plane-seattle-3" target="_blank">The London Plane</a>: </strong>With a café, a specialty foods grocery, and a floral workshop all in one, there’s plenty to keep you entertained at this multi-use venue.<strong>Spot That Sparks Conversation—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/seattle-art-museum-seattle" target="_blank">Seattle Art Museum</a>:</strong> Explore a series of rotating visual exhibits and programs that feature art from across the globe.<strong>Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-pink-door-seattle-4" target="_blank">The Pink Door</a>:</strong> This Italian-American restaurant boasts a hefty wine list that pairs perfectly with its classic Italian dishes made with seasonal ingredients.<strong>Best Themed Bar—<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/unicorn-seattle" target="_blank">Unicorn</a>:</strong> A carnival-themed bar means whimsical fun awaits, whether you’re looking to play on its claw machine, engage in a mimosa cabaret, or snack on your favorite carnival-themed staples.

<p>A hospital stay is nothing like a retreat at a five-star hotel, but it may have the same pricetag when you’re abroad.</p><p>Research from personal finance website <a href="https://www.finder.com/uk/most-expensive-countries-to-be-hospitalised-in" target="_blank">Finder.com</a> revealed that it can be up to 12 times more expensive to spend the night in a hospital than a five-star luxury hotel.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best/hotels-top-100-overall" target="_blank">The Top 100 Hotels in the World</a></p><p>Monaco has one of the most expensive rates per night for a hospital bed. Travelers who end up needing hospital care can expect to pay more than $3,400 for each night. The average price of a five-star hotel is a comparatively measly $500 per night.</p><p>Just because a country has universal healthcare for its residents does not mean that a traveler will come away with a cheap medical bill. The second and third most expensive hospital stays are in Luxembourg (about $1,800 per night) and Norway ($1,330 per night), where a five-star hotel costs $154 or $327, respectively.</p><p>Even cheaper than a five-star hotel or one night in a hospital is the average cost of travel insurance for one week: about $25. Just be warned that the average travel insurance won’t cover you for accident or illness abroad (<a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/travel-insurance-basics" target="_blank">it’s more about if you need to cancel your plans</a>). If you’re looking for healthcare coverage while abroad, consider a company like SafeTrip or Travelex. <a href="https://www.uhcsafetrip.com/comparison/" target="_blank">A recent search on SafeTrip</a> retrieved a quote for $12.72 for medical coverage up to $100,000 and a $100 copay in Monaco.</p><h2>Most Expensive Hospital Beds (Per Night)</h2>Monaco ($3,400)Luxembourg ($1,800)Norway ($1,330)Qatar ($1,300)Switzerland ($875)San Marino ($838)Denmark ($800)Ireland ($797)United Arab Emirates ($720)Netherlands ($704)

<p><a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/more-amazon-prime-day-deals" target="_blank">Amazon’s Prime Day</a> event is in full swing, and there are a ton of <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/more-amazon-prime-day-deals" target="_blank">amazing deals for travelers</a> to take advantage of including <a href="https://aax-us-east.amazon-adsystem.com/x/c/QkfULp2nl6U9-RfXMkehGW0AAAFkqMXAkAEAAAFKAS1VWWw/https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06ZYJJNLD/ref=as_at/?imprToken=96JDJOsHPU1wslXc8QplzQ&amp;slotNum=3&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;tag=travandleis07-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=w50&amp;creativeASIN=B06ZYJJNLD&amp;linkId=c256ac0760150a30ca41ef2df8c44fa7" target="_blank">Gonex Compression packing cubes</a>, <a href="https://aax-us-east.amazon-adsystem.com/x/c/QkfULp2nl6U9-RfXMkehGW0AAAFkqMXAkAEAAAFKAS1VWWw/https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079DXL4MM/ref=as_at/?imprToken=96JDJOsHPU1wslXc8QplzQ&amp;slotNum=5&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;tag=travandleis07-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=w50&amp;creativeASIN=B079DXL4MM&amp;linkId=ac879f877b27ccf063d21e0caeac4229" target="_blank">Bcozzy travel pillows,</a> and <a href="https://aax-us-east.amazon-adsystem.com/x/c/QkfULp2nl6U9-RfXMkehGW0AAAFkqMXAkAEAAAFKAS1VWWw/https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00838TQQK/ref=as_at/?imprToken=96JDJOsHPU1wslXc8QplzQ&amp;slotNum=9&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;tag=travandleis07-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=w50&amp;creativeASIN=B00838TQQK&amp;linkId=03f88be1526cb3bb23d43bb45de2c89b" target="_blank">Herschel Supply Co. Little America backpacks</a>. And though the sales kicked off on Monday, fear not, as there are still plenty of great deals happening throughout the day on Tuesday, too.</p><p>To get in on the insane discounts, all you need to do is have an Amazon Prime account. But if you don’t have one yet, you can still <a href="https://www.amazon.com/amazonprime?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=aca0a6ad4dac20b7e5065833fe7ca508&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" target="_blank">sign up today for a 30-day free trial</a> and order your goodies now. Here are seven deals still going up today that every traveler needs to know about.</p><h2>30% Off the Ecosusi Unisex Weekend Bag</h2><img alt="Weekend bag for sale on Amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/weekend-bag-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=gFidqLBU"><p>The Ecosusi weekend bag is the perfect duffel for both men and women on the go. The bag’s water-repellent nylon fabric will protect your goods during that three-day getaway you’ve been planning. And because it comes in several colors, you can choose the style that best suits you.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DM3NG1Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B01DM3NG1Q&amp;linkId=d3613c12d3cc499744d9776c07f12ea5" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $28 (originally $40)</p><h2>29% Off the WiMiUS Action Camera</h2><img alt="Wimius camera for sale on Amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/wimius-camera-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=h-oCnz88"><p>If you’re hoping to capture all your mountain biking, surfing, hiking, and action sports adventures, look no further than the WiMiUS Action Camera. The camera captures the action in 4K video and high-quality photos and can mount onto just about anything (including bikes, skateboards, snowboards, helmets, and more). Go ahead and get one and become the next YouTube star by tomorrow.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071CFHJY1/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B071CFHJY1&amp;linkId=5f58fd896165a76409ebd018c567a4b9" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $50 (originally $70)</p><h2>23% Off the Syourself Microfiber Beach Towel</h2><img alt="Microfiber Towel for sale on Amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/microfiber-towel-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=6pShtsWn"><p>The Syourself microfiber towel is ideal for those looking to be stylish and dry at the beach at the same time. The towel, which comes in several funky colors, measures in at a whopping 30 inches by 60 inches. And, thanks to its microfiber fabric, it dries quickly so you can pack it up and go as soon as you're out of the water.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N4W7S8M/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B01N4W7S8M&amp;linkId=2fa77a7ef9c66fafdd68be98f5fdc318" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $14 (originally $18)</p><h2>23% Off the Loctote Theft-resistant Flak Sack</h2><img alt="Tote Bag for sale on Amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/loc-tote-pack-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=Zex56xjR"><p>Yes, it’s true, a stylish and travel-safe backpack really does exist. The Loctote sack comes in a light heather gray color and looks like any other drawstring backpack, but comes with a hidden twist. The bag is actually constructed with a double layer of slash-resistant fabric, is lockable, and also comes with a large internal pocket that is lined with a certified RFID blocking material to shield credit cards, passports, and key cards from scanning.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MTEK78R/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B01MTEK78R&amp;linkId=4a436d9ade5753a85f329b24a9a4cd87" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $104 (originally $150)</p><h2>37% Off the Panasonic Lumix Camera</h2><img alt="Lumix Camera for sale on Amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/lumix-camera-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=qUABqq--"><p>If you’re looking to up your photography game, look no further than the Panasonic Lumix Camera. The lightweight camera comes with 4K video capability and a ton of features for those learning how to take a great shot, like 5-axis correction tilt, high-speed focus technology, remote Wi-Fi shooting, and more.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KOUIBZW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B00KOUIBZW&amp;linkId=06c8b68b34c335a3b5718f750c67d588" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $500 (originally $798)</p><h2>20% Off the Miu Picnic Blanket</h2><img alt="Picnic blanket for sale on Amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/miu-picnic-blanket-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=lCyuk1GW"><p>This summer and fall why not get outside and dine al fresco? You can do just that with the adorable Miu Picnic Blanket — and this isn’t just any old blanket. It’s both sand-proof and waterproof, meaning you can take it just about anywhere without worrying about the elements. It's also the perfect size for two adults, so really, what’s a more romantic Prime Day purchase than that?</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JJCDWB8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B01JJCDWB8&amp;linkId=f761a403e21372d47a65cba15f70395b" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $16 (originally $20)</p><h2>20% Off the Zoppen Travel Wallet </h2><img alt="Zoppen Multi Purpose Rfid Blocking Travel Passport Wallet "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1508249944/Zoppen-Multi-purpose-Rfid-Blocking-Travel-Passport-Wallet-AMZNTRL1017_0.jpg?itok=0RXJkdHR"><p>Several color options of this top-selling travel wallet are on sale for 20 percent off right now: Seal Brown, Hazelnut, Mint Green, Niagara Blue, and more. It’s got dedicated pockets for absolutely every little thing you’d need to bring on a trip.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078MJGKKM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B078MJGKKM&amp;linkId=e4b0ae84192f6cb47679639fbe8610df" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, $12 (originally $14)</p><h2>Live at 2:50 p.m. ET: Esonstyle Over-ear Bluetooth Headphones</h2><img alt="Headphones for sale on amazon "src="https://cdn-image.travelandleisure.com/sites/default/files/styles/1600x1000/public/1531843481/esonstyle-headphones-PRIMETUES0718.jpg?itok=bxwjb677"><p>Ever want to buy Bluetooth headphones, but afraid of the hefty price tag that typically comes with them? Well, now’s your chance to get a pair for a discounted price. The Esonstyle over-ear headphones can fold up to fit perfectly in any bag, and are compatible with most mobile devices. And, at less than $20 a pair, what’s not to love? Grab the Esonstyle headphones in your favorite color before they run out.</p><p>To buy: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V31B8YM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=tlprimelightningdeals-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B00V31B8YM&amp;linkId=ab5817fa87d1b7c70870f95f7ee8f69c" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, originally $20</p>

<p>One month after his death at the age of 61, Anthony Bourdain’s CNN show “Parts Unknown” has received six Emmy nominations.</p><p>The series received six nominations for nonfiction programming, including Outstanding Cinematography, Outstanding Picture Editing, Outstanding Informational Series or Special, Outstanding Sound Editing, Outstanding Sound Mixing and Outstanding Writing.</p><p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/anthony-bourdain-frequent-flier-miles-in-will" target="_blank">How Anthony Bourdain Left His Frequent Flier Miles in His Will</a></p><p>In its 11 seasons, “Parts Unknown” was <a href="https://www.emmys.com/shows/anthony-bourdain-parts-unknown-0" target="_blank">nominated for 31 Emmy awards</a> and won five times. Four of those wins were for Outstanding Informational Series or Special. The show also won a Peabody award in 2013.</p><p>In total, Bourdain has now received 23 Emmy nominations and eight wins over his career. He has the potential to win two more posthumously, one for Outstanding Informational Series and one for Outstanding Writing.</p><p>Bourdain was found dead at a hotel in Strasbourg, France on June 8 while filming an episode of “Parts Unknown.” French authorities confirmed the cause of death as suicide.</p><p>After <a href="https://www.change.org/p/netflix-keep-anthony-bourdain-s-parts-unknown-on-netflix" target="_blank">almost 8,000 fans signed a petition</a>, Netflix extended a deal to keep the first eight season of “Parts Unknown” streaming <a href="https://twitter.com/netflix/status/1006612115216453632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1006612115216453632&amp;ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.businessinsider.com%2Fnetflix-extends-deal-for-anthony-bourdain-parts-unknown-after-fan-petition-2018-6'" target="_blank">for “months to come.”</a></p><p>CNN has not yet announced its plans for season 12 of the show, which Bourdain was filming at the time of his death. He had already filmed episodes in New York City, Texas, northern Spain, Bali and Kenya for the new season.</p>